Request for inquiry in Peter Ellis case declined

The request for a Commission of Inquiry into the Peter Ellis and the Christchurch Civic Creche case has been declined.

Justice Minister Simon Power says that is because Ellis has not exhausted all his appeal rights. He could still go to the Privy Council.

Mr Power says he has made a careful and comprehensive examination of the case and discussed it with his Cabinet colleagues.

The request for an inquiry came from a high profile group headed by Don Brash, Katherine Rich and Dr Lynley Hood.

They wanted a Commission of Inquiry with the power to recommend a pardon for Ellis, who in 1993 was convicted of 16 counts of indecency involving seven children.

Mr Power says it is not appropriate for the Government to intervene while Ellis could still take legal action. He says still has Ellis' appeal rights, which have a significant bearing on the suitability of an inquiry and its ability to achieve finality.

- NEWSTALK ZB